Property Council appoints new President

Property Council appoints new President

Tony Sewell, chief executive of Ngāi Tahu Property Limited was elected as National President by Property Council in Auckland yesterday. Today is Mr Sewell’s first day on the job.

As new National President, Mr Sewell will bring a wealth of knowledge spanning more than 40 years in the construction and property industries, along with an understanding of current seismic challenges in Canterbury and throughout New Zealand.

He has been in charge of the Iwi-owned business since its establishment in 1994, and a member of Property Council since 1999. Under Mr Sewell’s guidance, Ngāi Tahu has grown its asset base from $2 million to become the South Island’s strongest property company with an asset base now in excess of $500 million.

“My appointment recognises the significant role that the Maori economy now plays in New Zealand, particularly in the property sector,” said Mr Sewell.

“While I am National President, I would like to see Property Council remain an influential advisor to both Central and Local Government. I would also like to see the property sector take a leading role in the development and funding of infrastructure in New Zealand.”

Mr Sewell takes over from outgoing National President, Chris Gudgeon, who has served as National President of Property Council for the last two and a half years. Mr Gudgeon has been a strong advocate for removing financial disincentives for the commercial property industry.

“I look forward to supporting our new President with our continuing campaign to get government to address deficiencies in current tax policy which acts to deter investment in both the re-construction of Christchurch and earthquake strengthening around the country,” said Mr Gudgeon.

Mr Gudgeon will continue to sit on Property Council’s National Council, and will be a contributor to the organisation’s governance at a national level.

ENDS

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